The roof is undeniably your home’s first line of defence against the elements. Rain, sun, and wind constantly barrage it, leading to a build-up of moss, algae, and general grime. Left unchecked, this accumulation can not only affect the aesthetics of your house but also potentially shorten the lifespan of your roof. This is where roof cleaning comes in to overcome all these issues.
Why It is Important?
In the UK, it is reported that every year over 2.3 million homes need roof repairs due to moisture buildup beneath the tiles. Lichen growth plays a great role in this regard. It also accelerates the rotting of the materials as time passes.
You can prevent this by eliminating accumulated filth and scheduling cleaning of your roof for proper ventilation. A clean roof minimises water damage and improper drainage by keeping gutters clear of obstructions and improving the overall appeal of your house.
Choosing the Right Method To Clean Your UK Roof
The best method for roof cleaning varies depending on the type of roofing material, the severity of the buildup, and your budget. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
High-powered Washers:
Powerful water jets are used in the pressure cleaning procedure to clear the surface of the roof of algae and other debris. This technique improves the general appeal of your home and removes resistant elements with effectiveness.
Although pressure washing is a reasonably quick operation, not all roofs are good candidates for it. High pressure can damage delicate materials like slate or concrete tiles. Also, its improper or unprofessional use can lead to water ingress, causing leaks.
Gentler Cleaners:
To clean the roof, soft washing uses low-pressure conditions to prevail water stream mixed with specific biocide treatments. The biocide breaks down organic matter and allows it to be rinsed away easily. This method is gentler than pressure washing and is suitable for delicate fragile roofing materials. It may take longer than pressure washing. Pets, plants, or the environment are not harmed by the biodegradable detergents used in the mild wash.
Manual Procedures:
Clumps of moss and dirt must be physically scraped and brushed off using this labour-intensive technique. It works well for small spaces or roofs that are too fragile for high-pressure techniques. But, it takes time, and working at heights necessitates safety measures.
Steam Cleaning
It is an emerging method in the UK for eliminating stubborn stains without causing harm to your roof. This method uses high-temperature steam around 150°C to 200°C to eliminate allergens and bacteria from the roof surface.
The global steam cleaner market size is expected to reach USD 3.57 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 5.12% to reach USD 4.58 billion by 2029
Air Washing:
The air wash system is a gentle technique for cleaning contaminants from your roof. It involves releasing air from the gutter or ground height to remove debris. It’s a relatively new approach, particularly suited for flat roofs or those with minimal build-up.
Chemical Cleaning
Although chlorine bleach washing is a cheap way to clean a roof, professionals do not advise it because of the possible threats to the environment and the roof itself.
If the ratio of bleach to water is greater than 50:50, it might lead to the early degradation of asphalt shingles.
Dangers of Neglecting Roof Cleaning For Long:
Don’t let your roof become a haven for grime! Leaving the roof uncleaned for a longer period can lead to various potential issues including:
Structural Damage:
The main offenders here are the growth of algae and moss. These organisms cause decay by retaining moisture beneath tiles or roofs.
This damp absorption has the potential to damage the roof’s underlying structure over time, necessitating expensive repairs or maybe an early roof replacement.
Water Leaks:
Rain downspouts might back up under the shingles due to leaves and debris overflowing from clogged gutters. This could result in roof leaks that harm walls, ceilings, and even electrical systems.
Reduced Lifespan:
A dirty roof is simply more exposed to the elements. The granules that shield asphalt shingles from sun damage and cracking can be worn down by dirt and filth. In the end, this reduces how long your roof lasts.
Increased Energy Bills:
More heat is absorbed by a dirty, dark roof. The increased effort required by your air conditioning system to maintain a pleasant house throughout the summer may result in higher cooling costs.
Health Risks:
The degraded roof causes serious health hazards to the human body. The issues like mold growth compromise the overall ventilation system of your home. People having a history of respiratory issues like asthma or fungal allergy would face severe attacks as a result of these contaminated spores.
Compromise Curb Appeal:
It will lower the worth of your house if you don’t keep it well-maintained. For instance, If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, a neglected roof can give potential buyers a negative first impression.
Best Time for Roof Cleaning:
The most optimal times to clean a roof are in the late spring or early autumn, when it’s dry and mild outside and there won’t be any severe weather or precipitation. To avoid the cleaning solution evaporating too quickly, experts advise selecting a cloudy day.
It is important to avoid windy days or days with precipitation, as this can affect the overall cleaning process and safety.
Frequency of Roof Cleaning:
The majority of experts suggest wiping your roof at least once a year. For recently installed roofs or roofs in excellent condition, cleaning may be enough once every one to two years.
The exact frequency depends on factors like your local climate and environment.
Humid or high rainfall areas may require more frequent cleaning to address issues like mold growth. However, the drier environments may only need cleaning every 2-3 years.
The necessity for roof cleaning can vary depending on the close proximity to trees, sources of pollution, and other materials. Visual inspections on a regular basis might assist you in determining whether roof maintenance is necessary. Seek indications such as accumulation of dirt, black stains, and lichen development.
Additional Considerations
Safety First: Roof cleaning can be dangerous. Try to hire a professional assistant with the expertise and safety equipment to handle the job securely.
Weather Conditions: Avoid the procedure in extreme climatic conditions. The best is to choose a dry, calm day with moderate temperatures.
Impact on the Environment: Certain cleaning agents have the potential to harm wildlife and vegetation. When feasible, choose non-toxic cleaning supplies.
Conclusion:
Regular roof cleaning is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your home and extending the lifespan of your roof. In the UK, there are several methods of roof cleaning, each with its own advantages and suitability for different types of roofs. By investing in professional cleaning services, you can ensure that your roof stays in top shape for years to come
